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Updated: Feb 7, 2026

Expansion Microscopy: High-Resolution Fluorescent Imaging with a Conventional Microscope
Published on: December 19, 2025
Integrative microendoscopic system combined with conventional microscope for live animal tissue imaging
Martin Köhler1, Bjorn Paulson2,3, Youngkyu Kim3
1The Rolf Luft Research Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
This study introduces an affordable microendoscopic system that attaches to conventional microscopes, enabling high-resolution live animal imaging. This innovation lowers costs for intravital optical diagnosis in disease models.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Optical Imaging
- Microscopy
Background:
- Intravital optical imaging is crucial for minimally invasive diagnosis in small animal models.
- High-resolution imaging demands costly, specialized equipment and setups.
- Existing systems present a significant financial barrier for many researchers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a cost-effective microendoscopic system as an add-on for conventional microscopes.
- To enable high-resolution live animal cellular imaging using existing infrastructure.
- To reduce the overall system cost for confocal endomicroscopy.
Main Methods:
- Designed a 4f optical plane relay system for image transmission.
- Incorporated a rotary stage for flexible side-view endoscopic probe positioning.
- Developed an attachable endoscopic probe mount with adjustable orientation.
Main Results:
- The system integrates with common confocal microscope manufacturers.
- Enables acquisition of live animal cellular images from conventional systems.
- Offers a more affordable alternative to complete confocal endomicroscopic systems.
Conclusions:
- The proposed microendoscopic system significantly reduces the cost of intravital imaging setups.
- It provides a versatile solution for biological studies in animal physiology and disease models.
- Enhances accessibility to advanced imaging techniques for a wider research community.
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